The Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology

Developmental Epilepsy

Director: Solomon L. Moshe, M.D.

Laboratory of Developmental Epilepsy: Clinical and research data suggest that the immature brain is more susceptible to seizures than the mature brain. The focus of the laboratory is to study, in animals, the epileptic process, its modifiers and consequences as a function of age and gender, translating novel findings to clinical applications.

Projects include:

Identification of specialized subcortical circuits that modify seizures and are involved in the expression of increased seizure susceptibility of the immature brain. Ongoing studies indicate that their age- and sex-related differences in GABA function in the substantia nigra, a site critically involved in seizure control. These changes should be taken into account when drugs are developed to treat age-specific and sex-specific disorders in humans.

Development and characterization of animal models of human catastrophic epilepsies. We have created a unique rat model of infantile spasms that can be used to understand the pathophysiologic consequences and to identify novel treatments.

Identification of surrogate imaging, EEG and molecular markers that may predict whether seizures may beget seizures or predict the development of an epileptic encephalopathy.

The long-term effects of seizures early in life on diseases commonly associated with adulthood; i.e. stroke

Determination of the relation of disorders of carbohydrate homeostasis to epilepsy and its consequences.

Development of age-appropriate regimens to stop ongoing seizures and to prevent epileptogenesis.

Age- and sex-specific expression of stereotypic behaviors.

The lab has received consistent funding since 1979. Students interested in normal brain function or brain function during disease (epilepsy) can choose projects utilizing a variety of in vivo and in vitro techniques available in the lab. There are also ample opportunities for Pediatric Neurology trainees to pursue an academic career through a NINDS sponsored NSADA grant. The translational work is supported by a strong clinical research component.